Best Hikes in Hong Kong

Did you know that nearly three-quarters of Hong Kong is predominantly rural and is packed with a variety of landscapes from mountains, forests and wetlands to secluded beaches and islands?

Not far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Hong Kong provides a great escape for people to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the countryside.

Dragon’s Back – Hong Kong Trail

With beautiful coastal scenery and easy accessibility from the city, this is one of the most popular hikes in Hong Kong. You can cool off at Shek O beach or enjoy a cold beer at Big Wave Bay post-hike.

Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR Station and hop off at To Tei Wan, Shek O Road.

Sunset Peak (Tai Tung Shan) – Stage 2 Lantau Trail

Catch magic hour atop the 869-metre Sunset Peak, Hong Kong's third highest peak. Along the hike, you'll see rustic stone huts and expansive seascapes. The panoramic view at the summit will make the difficult climb more than worth it.

Tip: Bring a flashlight along because it will be dangerous descending from the peak in the dark.

Bus 11A, 23, or 3M to Pak Kung Au from Tung Chung Station. From the endpoint take bus 3M to Tung Chung MTR Station or to Mui Wo Bus Terminal.

Lion Rock Peak – Stage 5 of Maclehose Trail

Climb to the top of Lion Rock for panoramic views over Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. A great spot for a picnic and photo op then continue along the trail towards Sha Tin where you'll be greeted by monkeys!

Tip:You will need to use your hands on the last section of the climb, so do bring hiking gloves!

Take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin station (Follow this page for more detailed instructions)

Lantau Peak (Fung Wong Shan) – Stage 3 Lantau Trail

At 934 metres, this is the second highest peak in Hong Kong with sweeping views. Descend on the South side down to the beach for a rewarding swim after a 5-hour hike.

MTR to Tung Chung Station, take bus 23 (the journey takes about 50 minutes). Hop off at Pak Kung Au.

Tai Mo Shan – Stage 7 and 8 of Maclehose Trail

Standing at 957 metres, Tai Mo Shan is the highest peak in Hong Kong with sweeping views of the lush green landscape and a sea of clouds over the mountains if you go in Spring.

Take the MTR to Tsuen Wan, Kwai Hing, or Tai Wo Hau Station then a cab to Lead Mine Pass.

Tai Long Wan – Stage 2 of Maclehose Trail

This secluded spot on the east coast of the Sai Kung Peninsula boasts turquoise waters and long stretches of sand. Tai Long Wan is formed by four beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan and Tung Wan. Start the hike at Sai Wan Pavilion to the first beach where you can detour to the waterfall for cliff jumping.

Take the MTR to Po Lam and from there hop in a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion.